Back to routine.

Getting back into a routine of practice and study can really take some time. It is not an overnight
change for me. Over the last four months many exciting things have happened in my life and time need to be scheduled now more than ever. Fitting practice in usually is not a problem for me as it only takes a 20-30 minute slot in a day and all is well and good.

                     The problem: I have too many hobbies and chores! So this has has to change in order for me to get back on a pace of learning. Starting today, I shall be practicing at either 4:30-5P or at 9:00PM. No if's,ands or buts. It simply needs to be done. As for the other important part of my schedule,my running,well it will fit in as the weather and time permits.It will ALWAYS be a part of my life and routine if I can help it.
                     
                         In the shakuhachi practice realm,we have a way of this called "Blowing Ro".
Simply put, it is just blowing the note Ro for long lengths of time, building up stamina and breath control in the lungs. This I have been doing the last few days and slowly but surely am getting back to better control. My sensei Larry always held firm to this and of maintaining firm breath control when practicing and playing.

                           As a side note,and one that will be brought up very often in this blog,my lifestyle of running plays a HUGE role in my shakuhachi practice/playing as well as in my "running meditation".
The two fit together like a snug glove. I listen to either music or books on mindfulness,compassion,Buddhist philosophy as well as theory and teaching books on the shakuhachi. Sure makes the miles go by quickly!!

                             As I head out the door to enjoy this Friday with Liberty and Ann, I reflect on the past week and the lessons learned in my life. I try to pick three each week..

     #1: Money is NOT everything and life is just as grand without it!!! As I have little, it it less bother.
     #2:Compassion is always a renewable resource that can be planted every moment possible.
     #3: Always LISTEN before I speak and digest/comprehend others words before my own.

To all my family and friends...have a truly delightful weekend!!!!